Aug

1

Black Henna Tattoos Causing Eczema Flare Ups in Kids

Filed Under Eczema Triggers, Care for Eczema Skin, Eczema News, Eczema Child 

Does your kid get black henna tattoos at carnivals, shopping centres and birthday parties? If he or she has sensitive skin and prone to irritations, beware. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has just issued a warning that black henna tattoos contain a chemical called para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which can cause serious allergic reactions. PPD was commonly used for black hair dye. It is now being added to natural henna in order to increase the intensity and longevity of the temporary tattoo. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration prohibits the direct application of PPD to the skin because of known health risks, there are no regulations within the tattoo industry.

What is most alarming is that kids as young as four are the ones who are being exposed. Parents think that temporary tattooes are safe and fun and that they can be washed off easily. Prior to this latest announcement, I’ve not known better either.

However, off the records, there have been hundreds of reported cases of black tattoos causing allergic contact dermatitis. It was noted that reactions ranged from mild eczema to blistering and permanent scarring.

The only safe tattoo, it seems, is a vegetable henna and not a PPD-adulterated one. Well, but how do you tell them apart? Or would you be privvy to this information just prior to your kid getting one with a tattoo artist? You cannot guarantee that you will be informed duly.

The best prevention, therefore, is not to let your kid go for a temporary tattoo. It will be hard, I know. My kids just love the beautiful and intricate drawings of fairies, flowers and butterflies on their hands and even, faces. I can just hear them protesting and sulking away!

Comments

One Response to “Black Henna Tattoos Causing Eczema Flare Ups in Kids”

  1. William Fang on August 2nd, 2008 1:45 am

    To whom it may concern,

    Always being a natural is the best for eczema sufferer. This implies for non-eczema sufferer, they should also do the same.

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